Breast cancer walk set for October 7

Finish line at the 2017 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk at Cantigny.

Finish line at the 2017 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk at Cantigny. (Posted by AJ STEINBRUECKER, Community Contributor)

Community Contributor AJ STEINBRUECKER

The American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk will be held Sunday, October 7 at Cantigny Park in Wheaton to unite communities, honor those touched by the disease and raise awareness and funds for a world without breast cancer. Making Strides Against Breast Cancer is the largest network of breast cancer awareness events in the nation, with more than 1 million passionate participants supporting the noncompetitive three- to five-mile walks each year. Registration for this event begins at 8 am and the walk is set to start at 9am.

Dollars raised help the American Cancer Society fund innovative breast cancer research; provide education and guidance to help people reduce their risk; and offer comprehensive patient support to those who need it most.

Since 1993, more than 14 million supporters have raised more than $870 million nationwide. Last year 3,500 walkers in DuPage County helped to raise more than $210,000. This year, the walk is expected to raise more than $225,000.

In 2017, ACS staff helped guide more than 40,000 cancer patients through every step of their journey as they moved through the health care system, including helping with insurance problems, referring them to ACS and other local services, assisting caregivers and addressing obstacles to care.

"Because of the determination of Making Strides supporters, the American Cancer Society is there for people in every community affected by breast cancer, whether they're currently dealing with a diagnosis, may face one in the future, or will avoid it altogether because of education and risk reduction," said Jennifer Brauer, community development manager. "At the event, communities embrace a bittersweet mix of purpose - celebrating survivorship and paying meaningful tributes to loved ones lost. From research to education, prevention to diagnosis and treatment to recovery, we provide support to everyone impacted by breast cancer."

To learn more about the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer event and how you can become involved, visit http://www.MakingStridesWalk.org/dupageil or contact Jennifer Brauer at 630-518-5607 or jennifer.brauer@cancer.org

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The American Cancer Society is a global grassroots force of 1.5 million volunteers dedicated to saving lives, celebrating lives, and leading the fight for a world without cancer. From breakthrough research, to free lodging near treatment, a 24/7/365 live helpline, free rides to treatment, and convening powerful activists to create awareness and impact, the Society is the only organization attacking cancer from every angle. For more information go to http://www.cancer.org.

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